Peyton Manning Reportedly Passes Physical to Play in 2014

Kevin C. Cox—Getty ImagesQuarterback Peyton Manning of the Denver Broncos reacts as he walks off the field after their 43-8 loss to the Seattle Seahawks during Super Bowl XLVIII.

After throwing for a record-setting season with the Denver Broncos last year

Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning reportedly passed a required annual physical on his neck Monday, clearing the way for him to return to play in the NFL’s 2014 season.

The Associated Press reported, citing an unnamed source, that the Broncos QB passed a physical that had been considered a final hurdle before his return to the league. Manning, who will be 38 during the 2014 season, has had multiple surgeries on his neck and is required by his five-year, $96 million contract with the Broncos to pass a neck physical every spring to ensure he’s able to play.

The star quarterback, then with the Indianapolis Colts, was benched for an entire season in 2011 due to a neck surgery, reports the Associated Press. He signed with the Broncos in 2012 and in 2013 threw for a record-setting 5,547 yeards and 55 touchdowns, leading the Broncos to their first national title in 15 seasons.